The vibrant green of peridot, with its unique olive to lime hues, stands as the singular modern birthstone for the month of August. This gem, often referred to as the "gem of the sun," has been cherished for centuries for its believed protective qualities and its association with positivity and peace. Unlike many gemstones that occur in a variety of colors, peridot is one of the few that is found in only one color family—shades of green—derived from its iron content. Its journey from volcanic depths to fine jewelry has created a rich tapestry of geological wonder, historical lore, and modern symbolism. This article explores the multifaceted nature of peridot, from its geological formation and gemological properties to its storied past and its role in contemporary jewelry, particularly in the popular easy-close bracelet designs.
Peridot's significance extends beyond its role as a birthstone. It is a gem that has been treished by ancient civilizations, associated with royalty, and believed to possess powerful metaphysical properties. Today, it continues to captivate jewelry enthusiasts and gemstone lovers with its bright, cheerful color and accessible price point. We will delve into the science behind its formation, the sources that supply the world's peridot, its symbolic meanings, and practical advice for its care and maintenance. By examining the available information, we can appreciate why this luminous green gem holds a special place in the world of gemstones and continues to be a favored choice for personal adornment and meaningful gifts.
History and Lore
The history of peridot is as ancient and rich as the gem itself. Believed to have been known to humanity since at least 1500 B.C., its origins are traced back to the ancient Egyptian civilization. The Egyptians held peridot in high esteem, mining it on the island of Zabargad (also known as St. John's Island) in the Red Sea. This island was the primary source of peridot for the ancient world, and its gems were highly valued. The Egyptians called peridot the "gem of the sun" and believed it possessed protective powers against evil spirits and nightmares. It was often set in gold and worn as an amulet to ward off dark forces and bring peace and good fortune to the wearer.
Peridot's association with royalty is also well-documented. Historical accounts suggest that Cleopatra, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, may have owned a collection of peridot gems, which were often mistaken for emeralds due to their green color. The distinction between peridot and emerald was not always clear in ancient times, and some historical "emeralds" are now believed to have been peridot. This confusion highlights the gem's value and desirability in antiquity.
Throughout history, peridot has been linked to light and protection. Medieval Europeans believed that peridot could ward off evil and protect against enchantments. It was often set in church ornaments and used by clergy for its perceived spiritual benefits. The gem's connection to the sun made it a symbol of hope and happiness. In Hawaiian folklore, peridot is said to be the tears of the goddess Pele, the goddess of fire and volcanoes, further cementing its association with volcanic origins and natural forces.
The journey of peridot to becoming a modern birthstone is a relatively recent development. The concept of birthstones has evolved over centuries, with roots in the Breastplate of Aaron described in the Book of Exodus, which featured twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. In 1912, the American National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America) standardized a list of birthstones, which included peridot for August. This list has been updated over time, but peridot has remained the primary birthstone for the month, a testament to its enduring appeal and significance.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is unique among gemstones for its formation process. It is one of the few gemstones that are formed not in the earth's crust, but deep within the earth's mantle. Peridot is a variety of the mineral olivine, which is a common mineral in the upper mantle of the Earth. It is brought to the surface by tectonic activity and volcanic eruptions. The gem is found in mafic and ultramafic rocks, which are rich in magnesium and iron. The chemical formula for peridot is (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄, indicating that it is a solid solution between forsterite (Mg₂SiO₄) and fayalite (Fe₂SiO₄). The color of peridot is determined by the amount of iron present in its composition; higher iron content results in a deeper, more olive-green hue.
The primary sources of peridot today are located in various parts of the world. Key mining locations include:
- Pakistan: The Karakoram region, particularly the areas around the Hunza Valley, is a significant source of high-quality peridot. The gemstones from this region are known for their exceptional clarity and vibrant color.
- Arizona, USA: The San Carlos Apache Reservation in Arizona is another major source of peridot. The gem is found in lava fields, a testament to its volcanic origins. Arizona peridot is often found in smaller sizes but is prized for its bright, lime-green color.
- Myanmar (Burma): The Mogok region in Myanmar is famous for producing some of the finest peridot, often with a rich olive-green color.
- China: Peridot is also mined in several provinces in China, contributing significantly to the global supply.
- Other Sources: Smaller deposits of peridot can be found in Brazil, Australia, Egypt, and Norway.
The historical source of peridot, the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea, still yields some gems, but production is limited compared to modern sources. The gem's formation in volcanic environments means that large, clean crystals are relatively rare, making larger peridot gems valuable.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the gemological properties of peridot is essential for appreciating its value and characteristics. The following table summarizes the key properties of peridot:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 6.5 - 7 |
| Refractive Index | 1.65 - 1.69 |
| Density | 3.34 |
| Luster | Vitreous (glass-like) |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Color | Olive green, lime green, yellowish-green |
The hardness of peridot on the Mohs scale, ranging from 6.5 to 7, makes it a reasonably durable gemstone suitable for all types of jewelry, including rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. However, its hardness is lower than that of sapphire or ruby (9) and diamond (10), so it requires some care to avoid scratches. Peridot does not have cleavage, which is a tendency to break along flat planes, making it less prone to chipping than some other gemstones. However, it is brittle and can be damaged by sharp blows.
One of the most appealing aspects of peridot is its color. Unlike many other gemstones that owe their color to trace impurities, peridot's green hue is an intrinsic part of its chemical composition. The iron content directly creates the green color, and the absence of other coloring agents means that peridot does not exhibit the color zoning often seen in other gems. High-quality peridot is characterized by a rich, vibrant green with no hints of yellow or brown, although a slight yellowish tint is common and acceptable. The most valued color is a pure, deep olive-green.
Clarity is another important factor in peridot's value. Most peridot gems are "eye-clean," meaning they have no visible inclusions to the naked eye. However, like most natural gemstones, peridot can contain inclusions. Common inclusions in peridot are small, black spots of iron oxide or lily pad inclusions, which are plate-like crystals. While some inclusions can decrease the value, a perfectly clean peridot is rare and commands a premium price.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot is steeped in symbolism and metaphysical beliefs, many of which have been passed down through generations. Its most prominent association is with light and the sun. As the "gem of the sun," peridot is believed to bring warmth, joy, and vitality to its wearer. It is often called the "stone of compassion" and is said to have a calming effect, alleviating anger, jealousy, and stress.
In modern metaphysical practices, peridot is linked to the heart chakra and the solar plexus chakra. The heart chakra is the center of love, compassion, and emotional balance, while the solar plexus chakra is associated with personal power, self-confidence, and willpower. By balancing these energy centers, peridot is believed to help individuals let go of past burdens, open their hearts to new relationships, and pursue their goals with confidence and clarity.
Peridot is also considered a stone of good fortune and abundance. It is believed to attract luck, especially in business and financial matters. For this reason, it is often carried or worn as a talisman for prosperity and success. Its protective qualities, which date back to ancient Egypt, are still revered today. Peridot is thought to create a protective shield around the wearer, warding off negative energies and psychic attacks.
For those born in August, peridot is said to enhance the positive traits associated with the Leo zodiac sign, such as generosity, warmth, and leadership. It is believed to help Leos express their creativity and passion while maintaining emotional balance. The gem's connection to the sun aligns perfectly with the fiery and charismatic nature of Leos.
In addition to its emotional and spiritual benefits, peridot is also believed to have physical healing properties. It is associated with the health of the heart, lungs, spleen, and lymphatic system. Some believe that wearing peridot can strengthen the immune system and aid in detoxification. While these claims are not scientifically proven, they contribute to the gem's enduring popularity in the world of crystal healing and wellness.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of peridot jewelry. While peridot is relatively durable, it is softer than some other gemstones and can be sensitive to heat and sudden temperature changes. Following specific guidelines will ensure that your peridot pieces remain in excellent condition for years to come.
Cleaning Peridot: * Use Mild Soap and Warm Water: The safest way to clean peridot is to use a bowl of warm water mixed with a few drops of mild dish soap. Soak the jewelry for a few minutes to loosen any dirt or oil. * Gentle Scrubbing: Use a very soft brush, such as a baby toothbrush or a soft-bristled jewelry brush, to gently scrub the gemstone and its setting. Pay special attention to the areas underneath the stone where dirt can accumulate. * Rinse Thoroughly: After scrubbing, rinse the jewelry thoroughly under warm running water to remove all soap residue. Be sure to plug the sink drain or use a strainer to prevent the jewelry from falling down the drain. * Dry with a Soft Cloth: Pat the jewelry dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid using paper towels, as they can sometimes scratch the metal or the gemstone.
What to Avoid: * Ultrasonic Cleaners and Steam Cleaners: Peridot should never be cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner or steam cleaner. The vibrations from an ultrasonic cleaner can cause fractures in the gem, and the high heat from a steam cleaner can damage it. * Harsh Chemicals: Avoid exposing peridot to harsh chemicals, including household cleaners, bleach, and chlorine. These chemicals can damage the gemstone and erode the metal settings. It is advisable to remove peridot jewelry before swimming in chlorinated pools or using cleaning products. * Abrasive Cleaners: Do not use abrasive cleaners or toothpaste, as they can scratch the surface of the gemstone.
Storage and Handling: * Separate Storage: Store peridot jewelry separately from other jewelry pieces to prevent scratches. Ideally, keep it in a soft-lined jewelry box or a separate pouch. * Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Protect peridot from extreme temperature changes, which can cause internal stress and lead to cracking. Do not leave it in direct sunlight for prolonged periods, as intense heat and light can potentially affect its color. * Protect from Blows: Although peridot is reasonably tough, it is brittle and can be damaged by sharp blows or impacts. Remove peridot rings before engaging in activities where they might be knocked against hard surfaces.
By following these simple care instructions, you can ensure that your peridot jewelry retains its vibrant green color and brilliant luster, allowing you to enjoy its beauty and positive energy for a lifetime.
Conclusion
Peridot, the luminous green birthstone of August, is a gem of remarkable character and significance. Its formation deep within the Earth's mantle, brought to the surface by the powerful forces of volcanism, gives it a unique origin story. Its consistent and vibrant green color, a direct result of its iron composition, has made it a favorite for centuries. From the ancient Egyptians who revered it as the "gem of the sun" to modern jewelry lovers who appreciate its cheerful hue, peridot has consistently symbolized light, hope, and protection.
The gem's journey through history is filled with tales of royalty, spiritual power, and good fortune. Its geological sources, from the volcanic fields of Arizona to the high mountains of Pakistan, provide a steady supply of this beautiful stone for the global market. With a respectable hardness on the Mohs scale, peridot is versatile enough for all forms of jewelry, though it requires mindful care to protect it from scratches and harsh chemicals. Its metaphysical associations with the heart and solar plexus chakras further enhance its appeal, offering a sense of emotional balance and personal empowerment to those who believe in its properties.
Whether set in a delicate bracelet, a bold ring, or a pair of elegant earrings, peridot's bright green glow brings a touch of nature's vibrancy to any ensemble. It stands as a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones, combining scientific interest with historical depth and cultural symbolism. For anyone born in August, or for those simply drawn to its positive energy and beautiful color, peridot remains a timeless and cherished gemstone.